Story perspectives

Trump, DeSantis Graffiti Defaces Black Cemetery, 17 Graves

5/15/2026

Summary

Story summary

Graffiti with the names of U.S. President Donald Trump and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis was sprayed on tombstones at Old Memphis Cemetery, a historic Black burial ground in Palmetto, Florida.
Manatee County Sheriff's Office is investigating vandalism that damaged 17 gravesites, broke headstones and concrete, and occurred before March 2026.
NAACP President Travey Washington called the act outraging and disturbing.
Community member Joseph Roberts also expressed outrage.

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Story summary

Graffiti with the names of U.S. President Donald Trump and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis was sprayed on tombstones at Old Memphis Cemetery, a historic Black burial ground in Palmetto, Florida.
Manatee County Sheriff's Office is investigating vandalism that damaged 17 gravesites, broke headstones and concrete, and occurred before March 2026.
NAACP President Travey Washington called the act outraging and disturbing.
Community member Joseph Roberts also expressed outrage.